Holidays in Tropea: a road trip from the Amalfi Coast to Sicily

Renting a car at Naples International Airport allows you to reach the Amalfi Coast in just over an hour, arriving in the beautiful town of Sorrento, where a spectacular drive begins through breathtaking panoramas and enchanting villages, leading you to discover unique places like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.

Once you reach Salerno, head inland skirting the Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni National Park, and then delving into the unspoiled nature of the Lucanian Apennines.

It will take about two and a half hours to arrive in Matera, a town rich in history, culture, and architecture with its typical Sassi, ancient dwellings carved into the rock.

After leaving Matera, head towards the splendid region of Calabria, descending along the Ionian coast until you reach the beautiful Tropea.

This is also the longest leg of your journey, requiring at least four hours on the road. However, the effort is well rewarded by the stunning landscapes you encounter along the way, especially along the coast known as the Coast of the Gods, a magical region that serves as the gateway to your holidays in Tropea.

Here, after exploring the historic center and the stunning white beaches, take a ferry to the volcanic Aeolian Islands, a true natural paradise where each island offers an unforgettable experience, from the lunar landscapes of Vulcano to the black sand beaches of Stromboli.

Finally, once back in Tropea, drive south to Reggio Calabria, where you can board the ferry that will take you to Sicily, your final destination and a truly magical land, where history and nature blend in perfect harmony. Every corner of the island will offer you something unique that you'll be eager to discover.

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most breathtaking roads in Italy, famous for its winding curves and spectacular views over the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Salerno.

Beyond the landscapes, you can take the opportunity to visit some of the most charming towns in the South. Start in Positano, with its pastel-colored houses arranged picturesquely along the steep cliff that descends towards the sea. This layout creates a unique scenic effect, with the houses seeming to "climb" one over the other, offering stunning views and perfect opportunities to snap dreamy photos!

Another must-see destination is Amalfi, where you can admire the majestic Duomo, built starting from the 10th century and still the heart of the town today. Sit in one of the restaurants overlooking the main square and savor the delicious local dishes and products. Some examples? Tasty scialatielli ai frutti di mare, irresistible delizia al limone, and a refreshing glass of local limoncello.

In the afternoon, stop by Ravello for a breathtaking experience at the Terrace of Infinity at Villa Cimbrone. The view will leave you speechless, with the sky seeming to merge with the sea in a scene that inspires pure serenity.

Finally, in the evening, head to the southern tip of the coast in Vietri sul Mare, to quickly explore the artisan ceramic shops before ending the day with a relaxing dinner, watching the sea glisten under the evening lights.

Ancient dwellings, rock-hewn churches, and a unique ability to transport you back in time. Matera is one of the oldest cities in the world and one of the most incredible places in Italy. At the heart of the city are the extraordinary Sassi, ancient cave settlements inhabited since prehistoric times, forming an intricate maze of caves, alleys, and squares.

As you stroll through the Sassi, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can visit frescoed rock churches, ancient ovens, and historic homes, some transformed into charming hotels and restaurants.

In Matera, there are plenty of gastronomic opportunities to savor the delicious flavors of Lucania: try the orecchiette with turnip tops, the traditional bread of Matera baked in wood-fired ovens, and the peperone crusco, a crunchy sweet pepper typical of Basilicata.

Among the must-see attractions, discover the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Bruna and Sant'Eustachio, which towers over Piazza Duomo, and the Church of San Pietro Caveoso, famous for its 13th-century frescoes and stunning location. For a truly special experience, visit the Laboratorio della Civiltà Contadina Museum to learn about the secrets of daily life for the people of Matera in the past.

End your day by heading to the Murgia Timone Belvedere to admire the city illuminated at sunset: the breathtaking view of the gravina and the Sassi of Matera will leave you with an unforgettable memory!

The third stop on our journey is Tropea, a magical place that represents the heart and soul of the road trip itinerary from the Amalfi Coast to Sicily. Few destinations have the ability to blend so many diverse and fascinating elements in perfect harmony, from natural landscapes to cultural attractions, and even the region's culinary traditions.

Spending holidays in Tropea means immersing yourself in one of the most iconic destinations in Calabria, and particularly the beautiful Coast of the Gods. If you’re looking for relaxation and pristine waters, its white sandy beaches (Spiaggia della Rotonda, Spiaggia del Cannone, and the more remote Spiaggia del Michelino), bordered by crystal-clear waters of an intense blue, make it an unmissable destination.

The historic center, perched on top of a promontory, is equally fascinating to explore. The narrow, winding alleys are full of shops, artisan workshops, historic buildings, and terraces that offer breathtaking views of the sea.

You can discover the ancient Duomo of Maria Santissima di Romania, stroll along the cobbled streets that branch out from Piazza Ercole, and reach the Belvedere of Piazza del Cannone to admire the silhouette of the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell'Isola, standing not far away.

The sanctuary itself is a must-see, as it is a true icon of Tropea. This enchanting site is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, offering stunning architecture and spectacular sea views, making it a place of pilgrimage and contemplation.

Finally, Tropea's cuisine cannot be overlooked. The red onion is the undisputed queen of local gastronomy, a symbol not only of the city but of all Calabria. It’s used in many traditional dishes, such as fileja alla cipolla or caponata Calabrese.

After a day spent visiting attractions or basking in the sun at the beach, sit at one of the many outdoor restaurants and enjoy a romantic dinner at sunset. Tropea will captivate you not only with its natural beauty but also with the authentic and relaxing atmosphere that only such a special town can offer.

Are you looking for an authentic and unique experience in the Mediterranean? The Aeolian Islands, a stunning archipelago off the northern coast of Sicily, are the place for you.

To reach this volcanic paradise from Tropea, you can take a direct ferry departing from the city's port during the summer season. The ferries connect Tropea to Stromboli, Vulcano, Lipari, and the other main islands, with a journey (about 1-2 hours depending on the destination) that offers breathtaking views of the Calabrian coast and volcanic islands during the crossing.

Each island in the archipelago has its own distinct character: Lipari, the largest, charms with its lively historic center and Lipari Castle, while Vulcano invites visitors to experience its sulfur mud baths and relax on its black sand beaches, offering a rejuvenating and out-of-the-ordinary experience.

Stromboli, with its active volcano, provides an unparalleled natural spectacle: the "lighthouse of the Mediterranean" lights up the night sky with its spectacular eruptions. It's the perfect spot for a nighttime excursion to witness this extraordinary natural phenomenon up close.

Salina, famous for the production of capers and Malvasia, a sweet and aromatic wine made in the Aeolian Islands, is a paradise for gourmet enthusiasts and nature lovers. Lastly, Panarea, with its chic appeal, is the preferred destination for those seeking a blend of sophistication and relaxation.

In summary, exploring the Aeolian Islands offers you a chance to immerse yourself in pristine natural environments, where crystal-clear waters and volcanic landscapes merge to create an unforgettable setting.

You’ve reached the end of this captivating journey through Southern Italy, a path that has taken you through beautiful destinations like the enchanting Amalfi Coast, the Sassi of Matera, and the wonderful Tropea, a perfect bridge between the mainland and the islands. Now, the final stop on this adventure awaits you: the extraordinary Sicily!

Sicily is more than just a tourist destination; it’s a cultural universe filled with history, traditions, and natural beauty. Its capital, Palermo, offers a surprising blend of Norman, Baroque, and Arab architecture, while its cuisine, with dishes like arancina (or arancino, as they call it in Catania), caponata, and pasta alla norma, is a true feast for the senses.

Catania, dominated by the mighty Mount Etna, is another vibrant and historic city, renowned for its Baroque center and spectacular views of the volcano. From here, you can easily visit Taormina, with its ancient Greek theater and charming historic center.

Further south is Syracuse, home to the Archaeological Park of Neapolis and the charming Island of Ortigia, other must-see gems. Here, in a place where ancient Greece still lives on in the extraordinary temples and theaters.

Sicily is also a land of sea and nature, from the golden beaches of San Vito Lo Capo to the Zingaro Nature Reserve, a paradise for hikers. Every corner of the island, in short, will offer you unique moments, in a perpetual meeting between past and present, where culture and fun come together in perfect harmony.